Heritage in Harmony: Emily Megan & Ian

Lily Chen Lily Chen | March 27, 2025 | Wedding Features,

Two Chicagoans’ wedding perfectly blends their Windy City love story and Scottish roots.

Emily Megan & Ian

June 22, 2024
Scotland

Photographed by Gryffe Wedding Films

It must have been fate that Emily Megan Gjothlen moved to the U.S. from Sweden for school; it was here she met Ian Drummond while studying at Kendall College. Fireworks erupted—literally—when Ian proposed at Navy Pier in front of 2,000 people, and after a two-year engagement, the duo wed at Drumtochty Castle in Scotland. Built by the Drummond Clan in 1812, their venue was an ode to the groom’s heritage; but a Scottish wedding was also an important tradition for Emily Megan, as her parents had tied the knot there 30 years before.

The bride’s favorite wedding day moment was when she walked down the aisle. “It all hit me in that moment that it was finally happening after two years in the making,” Emily Megan says. With 85 loved ones in attendance, the celebration blended Chicago and Scotland in perfect harmony. Guests were greeted by a bagpiper upon arrival, then had the opportunity to learn traditional Scottish dances during the reception; meanwhile, the newlyweds used a sword to cut the cake in ancient tradition. As a nod to the couple’s hometown Chicago, guests received favors of Garrett Popcorn.